Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Passes Away at 92

India mourns the loss of one of its most esteemed leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away on December 26, 2024, at the age of 92. Known as the architect of India’s economic liberalization, Dr. Singh’s demise marks the end of an era. His contributions to the nation’s economic and political fabric remain unparalleled.

Last Rites to be Held at Nigambodh Ghat

Dr. Singh’s last rites are scheduled for 11:45 AM on December 28, 2024, at Nigambodh Ghat in Delhi. The ceremony will witness the attendance of prominent political figures, dignitaries, and citizens from across the country. A state funeral has been announced, accompanied by a period of national mourning until January 1, 2025. During this time, the national flag will be flown at half-staff, and cultural events have been canceled as a mark of respect.

Early Life and Education

Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, a village in present-day Pakistan, Dr. Manmohan Singh overcame significant challenges to emerge as a leading figure in Indian politics and economics. After partition, his family migrated to India, and he pursued his education with remarkable determination.

Dr. Singh graduated with honors in Economics from Punjab University and later earned a degree from the University of Cambridge. He furthered his academic credentials by obtaining a doctorate in Economics from Oxford University. His scholastic achievements laid the foundation for his illustrious career as an economist and policymaker.

Career as an Economist and Policy Architect

Before stepping into politics, Dr. Singh served in various esteemed roles, including Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of India, Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, and Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission. His most notable contribution came in 1991 when, as Finance Minister under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, he spearheaded India’s economic reforms.

Faced with a severe balance-of-payments crisis, Dr. Singh’s policies liberalized the Indian economy, opening it up to global markets. His efforts dismantled the License Raj, reduced trade barriers, and encouraged foreign investment. These reforms not only rescued India from economic turmoil but also set the stage for its rapid growth in the following decades.

Tenure as Prime Minister

Dr. Singh served as India’s 14th Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, leading two consecutive terms of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. His tenure was marked by significant milestones, including the India-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement, which ended India’s nuclear isolation and bolstered its global standing.

Under his leadership, India achieved substantial economic growth, expanded social welfare schemes, and strengthened its infrastructure. Programs like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and the Right to Education Act highlighted his government’s commitment to inclusive development.

Despite facing criticism for his perceived silence on corruption scandals during his tenure, Dr. Singh’s integrity and commitment to public service remained unblemished. He was often lauded for his humility, wisdom, and ability to navigate complex political landscapes with grace.

Legacy of Leadership and Vision

Dr. Singh’s leadership style was characterized by quiet determination and an unwavering focus on long-term goals. He was a rare blend of academic brilliance and political acumen, which earned him respect across party lines. His contributions to economic policy, particularly in steering India towards globalization, have had a lasting impact.

As Prime Minister, he fostered stronger ties with global powers, particularly the United States, and played a pivotal role in shaping India’s foreign policy. His efforts to strengthen regional cooperation through initiatives like SAARC and his emphasis on climate change and sustainable development underscored his forward-thinking approach.

Tributes Pour In

Following the announcement of his passing, tributes poured in from leaders, colleagues, and citizens worldwide. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow, calling Dr. Singh a “gentleman statesman” whose contributions to India will be remembered forever. Former Congress President Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi also paid heartfelt tributes, emphasizing his role as a mentor and guide.

International leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden and United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, hailed Dr. Singh’s vision and his pivotal role in global economic policymaking.

A Man of Simplicity

Despite his towering achievements, Dr. Singh remained a man of simplicity. Known for his modest demeanor, he lived a life free from ostentation. His personal integrity and ethical conduct set a benchmark for public service. Dr. Singh’s ability to remain composed under pressure and his commitment to consensus-building were hallmarks of his leadership.

The Final Journey

As the nation prepares to bid farewell to Dr. Manmohan Singh, the air is heavy with grief and gratitude. The funeral at Nigambodh Ghat is expected to see thousands of mourners, including leaders from across the political spectrum. The ceremony will include full state honors, reflecting the profound respect and admiration he commanded.

For those unable to attend in person, arrangements have been made to broadcast the ceremony live, allowing citizens to pay their respects remotely.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge urges PM Modi to conduct last rites of Manmohan Singh at a place where a memorial can be built.

‘Last rites of former PM Manmohan Singh to be performed at Nigambodh Ghat in Delhi at 11:45am on Saturday,’ MHA said.

19:19 (IST) Dec 27

A person of great humility, visionary leader: Bangladesh chief adviser Muhammad Yunus on Manmohan Singh

19:07 (IST) Dec 27

Manmohan Singh’s life and work profoundly shaped India’s destiny: CWC

The Congress Working Committee (CWC) convened on Friday to honour former prime minister Manmohan Singh through a resolution acknowledging his significant influence on India’s political and economic spheres, which garnered him international recognition. The committee, gathered at the AICC headquarters, included Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, former leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, alongside general secretaries Jairam Ramesh, K C Venugopal and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who collectively paid their respects.

The distinguished economist and political leader passed away at AIIMS, Delhi, on Thursday evening at the age of 92, leaving behind his wife and three daughters.

The CWC resolution highlighted Singh’s tenure as finance minister during the early 1990s, recognising him as the principal architect of India’s economic liberalisation programme. His leadership steered the nation through critical financial challenges.

The committee acknowledged his strategic implementation of deregulation policies, privatisation initiatives, and promotion of foreign investments. These measures established a robust foundation for India’s substantial economic advancement, resulting in the country’s emergence as one of the world’s rapidly developing economies.

18:53 (IST) Dec 27

Dr Manmohan Singh was a man of few words, but a man of action: PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti

Following Dr Manmohan Singh’s death, the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti highlighted his significant contributions, particularly noting his instrumental role during the PDP-Congress alliance formation in 2002. She emphasised his quiet yet effective leadership style.

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti said, “We have gathered here today to pay our last respects to former PM Manmohan Singh who died yesterday. When the entire world was going through an economic crisis then it did not affect India as Dr Manmohan Singh handled the economy well. I have known him personally since 2002 when PDP and Congress were in talks for an alliance. Back then, Sonia Gandhi sent Manmohan Singh here, and for the first time in my life, I met such a humble person. He played a crucial role to ally then and he played an important role in preparing the agenda.”

Mufti further added: “He was a man of few words, but he was a man of action. I wish his soul rest in peace. I pray to god to give strength to his family to bear this loss. We should remember him for his work, good deeds and his soft accent. Today even for small events huge advertisements are put up but I did not see Dr Manmohan Singh in any advertisement.”

18:41 (IST) Dec 27

‘My friend, philosopher and guide’: Sonia Gandhi’s tribute to ex-PM Manmohan Singh

18:04 (IST) Dec 27

‘Brought economic reforms that reshaped India’s future’: Anurag Thakur condoles demise of Manmohan Singh

Anurag Thakur paid tribute to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, acknowledging his significant contributions to India’s economic transformation.

“He was an RBI Governor, Finance Minister, and played a key role in bringing economic reforms that reshaped India’s future. He was a calm and composed person. He used to give answers often in a poetic manner in Parliament. He was a good parliamentarian too,” Anurag Thakur told ANI.

The Union Cabinet, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, convened to pass a resolution expressing condolences for the former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh.

17:45 (IST) Dec 27

CWC meeting to honour Manmohan Singh begins

The Congress Working Committee (CWC) commenced its session at the AICC headquarters in Delhi, with attendees including party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, CPP Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, alongside other party officials. The meeting is convened to honour and pay respects to former Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh.

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For more information on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiatives and policies, you can visit the official Prime Minister’s website.

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Conclusion

Dr. Manmohan Singh’s passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. His legacy as a reformer, leader, and statesman will continue to inspire generations. As India mourns the loss of one of its greatest sons, the nation also celebrates the life of a man whose vision and dedication transformed the trajectory of the country. Rest in peace, Dr. Singh.